In Yellowstone, the popular television drama on the Paramount Network, John Dutton, played by actor Kevin Costner, certainly appears to be the central figure. As the patriarch of the Dutton family and the owner of the largest cattle ranch in Montana, much of the show's focus revolves around John and his struggles to protect his land from various threats. However, an article argues that despite this prominent role, John Dutton is not actually the main character of the series.

The article explains that while John Dutton may be the catalyst for many of the storylines and conflicts in Yellowstone, he is not the character that the audience is meant to connect with emotionally.

It suggests that the show's real main character is actually John's daughter, Beth Dutton, excellently portrayed by actress Kelly Reilly.

The author highlights that Beth is depicted as a fierce and complex character who possesses significant emotional depth and undergoes genuine character development throughout the series. Unlike John Dutton, whose character traits are relatively fixed and predictable, Beth's complex personality and her struggles with love, loss, and ambition make her a much more compelling and central figure.

Furthermore, the article argues that Beth's motivations and actions often drive the narrative forward, resulting in significant consequences for the other characters.

Her various relationships and conflicts, such as her toxic relationship with her brother Jamie or her tumultuous romance with Rip Wheeler, contribute to the overall dramatic tension of the show.

The article also suggests that other characters, such as Kayce Dutton, John's son, and his wife, Monica, also play crucial roles in the series and have their respective storylines. These characters bring their own emotional arcs and conflicts to the table, which significantly add to the depth and complexity of the show.

In summary, while John Dutton may be the central figure in terms of setting the context and initiating conflicts in Yellowstone, the article contends that he is not the primary character of the series.

Instead, Beth Dutton, along with other key characters, possesses more emotional depth and undergoes significant character development, making her the true main character. The article suggests that it is through Beth and her relationships that the audience becomes truly engaged and invested in the world of Yellowstone.